JP2015204612A - configurable antenna assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an antenna assembly that provides a compact design having an instantaneous bandwidth of at least 6:1, wide field of view or scan capability up to 60° or more from a normal to an antenna face, and arbitrary current control that provides both selective bandwidth and polarization diversity capability.SOLUTION: An antenna assembly may include a first ground plane, a second ground plane that may be switched between grounding and non-grounding states, and first and second antenna layers. Each of the first and second antenna layers may include a plurality of pixels interconnected by a plurality of phase change material (PCM) switches. The PCM switches are configured to be selectively switched between phases so as to provide a plurality of antenna patterns within the first and second antenna layers.

Description

  Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to antenna assemblies, and more specifically to configurable phased array antenna assemblies that can be switched between multiple antenna characteristics.

  Microwave antennas can be used in a variety of applications such as satellite broadcast reception, remote sensing, military communications, and the like. Printed circuit antennas generally provide a low-cost, lightweight and thin structure that is relatively easy to mass produce. These antennas are designed in arrays and can be used for radio frequency systems such as enemy friendly identification (IFF) systems, radar, electronic warfare systems, signal intelligence systems, line-of-sight communication systems, satellite communication systems, and the like.

  One known antenna assembly provides a static antenna assembly that cannot scan more than 45 ° from the normal to the antenna plane while maintaining an ultra-wideband ratio of 6: 1 or higher. Furthermore, spiral antennas are typically too large for many practical applications and cannot provide polarization diversity. Another known antenna assembly provides a 9: 1 bandwidth ratio, but generally undesirably high voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) when scanned beyond 50 ° from the normal to the antenna surface. ). Furthermore, arrays connected across the ground plane have similar scanning and VSWR limitations. In addition, fragmented antenna arrays typically include small features that cannot be scaled to high radio frequencies, can be limited to small scan volumes, and can be inefficient.

  In general, a static design may be able to support a single system function, but typically cannot be used for multiple functions. Narrowband antennas are typically designed to support only one particular RF system and cannot be replaced to support other systems and frequencies without great difficulty. Known static antenna wideband designs and assemblies typically have an instantaneous bandwidth of at least 6: 1, a wide field of view and scanning capability up to 60 ° or more from the normal to the antenna surface, and selective bandwidth and bias. It does not provide a compact design with arbitrary power control that provides both wave diversity capabilities.

  Certain embodiments of the present disclosure include a first ground plane, a second ground plane that can be switched between a grounded state and a non-grounded state, a first antenna layer, and a second antenna layer. An antenna unit cell phased array assembly is provided. Each of the first antenna layer and the second antenna layer may include a plurality of pixels (or similar features) interconnected by a plurality of first phase change material (PCM) switches. The first PCM switch is configured to be selectively switched between phases to provide a plurality of antenna patterns within the first antenna layer and the second antenna layer. The first PCM switch is configured to be selectively switched to provide a plurality of antenna characteristics.

  The second ground plane may include a plurality of plates interconnected by a plurality of second PCM switches. The second PCM switch is selectively activated and deactivated to switch the second ground plane between a ground state and a non-ground state.

  The antenna assembly may also include a plurality of control lines connecting the first ground plane to the second ground plane and the first antenna layer and the second antenna layer. For example, the first PCM switch may be connected to multiple control lines.

  The antenna assembly may also include a feed post mounted on the first ground plane. The second ground plane can be secured to a portion of the feed post. The feed post may include one or more conductors that connect to the first antenna layer and the second antenna layer.

  The antenna assembly may also include a first control grid connected to the first antenna layer and a second control grid connected to the second antenna layer. Each of the first control grid and the second control grid is a first set of traces that intersects a second set of traces at a plurality of intersections that are operatively connected to respective ones of the first PCM switches. Can be included. Each of the intersections may be energized to switch each of the first PCM switches between phases. The first control grid and the second control grid may be configured to be frequency selective. Each of the first control grid and the second control grid may also include one or more inductors inserted at sub-wavelength intervals.

  Each of the first PCM switches may be formed of germanium telluride (GeTe) having a first phase and a second phase. One of the first phase and the second phase is conductive, and the other of the first phase and the second phase is non-conductive.

  Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide an antenna assembly that may include an antenna array that includes at least one antenna layer. The antenna layer (s) may include a plurality of pixels interconnected by a plurality of first phase change material (PCM) switches. The first PCM switch is configured to be selectively switched between phases to provide a plurality of antenna patterns in the antenna array to provide a plurality of antenna characteristics. In at least one embodiment, the at least one antenna layer includes at least two antenna layers. The antenna assembly may also include one or more switched ground planes that can be switched between a grounded state and an ungrounded state.

1 is a top perspective view of a configurable antenna assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a partial top perspective view of a switched ground plane connected to a feed post, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a plate of switched ground planes connected by a switch according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 is a side view of an antenna assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a feed post secured to a ground plane, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. FIG. 4 is an upper plan view of an antenna layer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is an upper plan view of an antenna pattern of an antenna layer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is an upper plan view of an antenna pattern of an antenna layer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is an upper plan view of an antenna pattern of an antenna layer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a top plan view of a control grid according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 1 is a top perspective view of an antenna assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of a feed post according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

  The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain embodiments, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. As used herein, an element or step listed in the singular and following the word “a” or “an” is not intended to be construed unless an exclusion of an element or step plural is clearly indicated. Should be understood as not excluding the plural form. Furthermore, references to “one embodiment” are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Further, unless expressly indicated otherwise, embodiments comprising “a” or “having” one or more elements with a particular property may include additional elements that do not have that property.

  FIG. 1 illustrates a top perspective view of a configurable antenna assembly 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The antenna assembly 10 can be a single cell or a unit cell in a multi-cell phased array. The antenna assembly 10 may include a first ground plane or an underlying ground plane 12 that supports a feed post (partially hidden from the perspective of FIG. 1). A second ground plane or switched ground plane 14 may be secured to and / or around the feed post above the ground plane 12. As shown, at least a portion of the ground plane 12 and the switched ground plane 14 can be within a confinement volume 15, which can be formed of a foamed resin product, a dielectric material, and / or air.

  An antenna array 16 is operatively connected to the feedpost above the switched ground plane 14. The antenna array 16 can include, for example, a first antenna layer 18 and a second antenna layer 20 separated by a circuit board. Alternatively, the antenna array 16 can include more than two antenna layers. Alternatively, the antenna array 16 may include only one antenna layer. Each antenna layer 18 and 20 may include a plurality of antenna pixels 22 connected to other antenna pixels 22 by a switch that may be formed of a phase change material, as described below.

  A matching layer 26 may be disposed over the antenna array 16. The matching layer 26 is configured to match the antenna array 16 to free space or air. The matching layer 26 can be, for example, a radome that can be formed of a dielectric material, or can include a radome. The radome may be formed of a material that provides a structural weatherproof housing that protects the antenna array 16 and that attenuates electromagnetic signals transmitted or received by the antenna array 16 to a minimum. As shown, the matching layer 26 is formed as a block that may include perforated cylindrical or saddle-shaped holes that form inwardly curved corners configured to control unwanted surface waves. obtain. However, the matching layer 26 can be a variety of other shapes and sizes, such as pyramids, spheres, and the like. Further, the matching layer can be formed from a plurality of materials. In at least one embodiment, the matching layer 26 may not include inwardly curved corners. The drill holes can be formed using other shapes and sizes such as rectangles, triangles, spheres, and the like. The drill holes are disposed at different locations other than the corners, and can be formed by a plurality of holes and shapes. Alternatively, the antenna assembly 10 may not include the matching layer 26.

  As shown, a plurality of control lines 28 extend upward from the ground plane 12 around the outer boundary of the switched ground plane 14 and around the outer boundary of the antenna array 16. The control lines 28 may form a grid around the antenna assembly 10. Control line 28 may be a conductive metal trace configured to allow electrical signals to pass therethrough. The control line 28 switches various switches in the antenna assembly between the on and off positions (eg, between the conductive and non-conductive states of the phase change material switch) to switch the antenna assembly 10 between the various antenna patterns. It is configured to relay signals that are switched between).

  Different antenna patterns may provide different antenna characteristics. Each antenna characteristic may be defined as a unique combination of frequency, bandwidth, polarization, power level, scan angle, geometry, beam characteristics (width, scan rate, etc.), etc.

  The antenna assembly 10 can be operatively connected to the controller 30. For example, the control unit 30 can be electrically connected to the control line 28. The control unit 30 can be configured to control switching of a plurality of antenna patterns, for example. The controller 30 may be or may include one or more computing devices such as standard computer hardware (eg, processor, circuit, memory, etc.). The controller 30 can be operatively connected to the antenna assembly 10, for example, by a cable connection or a wireless connection. Optionally, the controller 30 can be an integral component of the antenna assembly 10. Alternatively, the antenna assembly 10 may not include separate and separate controls.

  The controller 30 may include any suitable computer readable medium used for data storage. For example, the control unit 30 may include a computer readable medium. The computer readable medium is configured to store information that can be interpreted by the controller 30. The information can be data or a computer implementation such as a software application that causes a microprocessor in the control unit 30 or other such control unit to perform certain functions and / or computer-implemented methods. It can take the form of possible instructions. Computer-readable media can include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media can be volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable implemented in any method or technique for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Possible media may be included. Computer storage media can be RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory, or other solid state memory technology, CD-ROM, DVD, or other optical storage device, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage device, or others Or any other medium that can be used to store the desired information and that can be accessed by the components of the controller 30.

  FIG. 2 illustrates a partial top perspective view of the switched ground plane 14 connected to the feed post 32 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The feed post 32 includes a central post 33 extending upwardly from a base 34 that can be supported across the ground plane 12 (shown in FIG. 1). A central opening through the switched ground plane 14 may be formed so that the switched ground plane 14 can be secured around the central post 33 above the base 34. Switched ground plane 14 may include a plurality of interconnected metal plates 36.

  FIG. 3 shows a top perspective view of the plate 36 of the switched ground plane 14 connected by the switch 38 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Each plate 36 may be formed in a rectangular shape having parallel ends 39 and parallel sides 40. Alternatively, the plate 36 can be formed in a variety of other shapes and layouts.

  As shown, the end 39 of each plate 36 is connected to the end 39 of the adjacent plate 36 by a switch 38. Similarly, the side 40 of each plate 36 is connected to the side 40 of the adjacent plate 36 by a switch 38. Further, the switch 38 extends from the outer end 39 and the outer side 40 of the plate 36 at the peripheral edge of the switched ground plane 14 or at the outer unit cell boundary. The switches 38 at the periphery of the switched ground plane 14 may be connected to respective control lines 28 (shown in FIG. 1).

  Each switch 38 may be formed of a phase change material (PCM) such as germanium telluride (GeTe). PCM dissolves and solidifies at separate temperatures. As PCM changes from solid to liquid and vice versa, heat is absorbed or released. PCM switches do not require a static bias for operation. Instead, only power needs to be applied during switching to switch between the phases of the PCM switch. One of the phases can be conductive while the other state can be non-conductive. In general, a PCM switch has two stable states that differ in conductivity by several orders of magnitude. Switching can be accomplished by controlled heating and cooling of the PCM switch.

  With reference to FIGS. 1-3, the control line 28 may be operated to switch the switch 38 on (eg, active or conductive state) and off (eg, inactive or non-conductive state). When switch 38 is off, switched ground plane 14 may be ungrounded. However, when the switch 38 is switched on, for example by a signal relayed by the control line 28, the switched ground plane 14 can be switched to a ground state above the ground plane 12. That is, by switching the switch 38 to the on position, the ground plane can be moved electrically or otherwise changed to the plane of the switched ground plane 14.

  The switched ground plane 14 may be configured to adjust the antenna assembly 10 to improve the high frequency behavior of the antenna assembly 10. The switched ground plane 14 can be switched on and off, for example, to selectively provide narrowband and wideband reception. When all of the switches 38 are activated (eg, switched on due to a phase change when power is applied during the switching operation, etc.), the switched ground plane 14 acts as a solid metal sheet. To do. However, when all of the switches 38 are deactivated, the switched ground plane 14 provides a mere plate grid so it is ungrounded and not significantly electrically present. Alternatively, the plate 36 can be made using a non-metallic, resistive, etc. surface material. Optionally, a portion of switch 38 can be activated while the remaining portion of switch 38 can be deactivated.

  FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of the antenna assembly 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For clarity, control line 28 is not shown in FIG. The central post 33 of the feed post 32 includes a plurality of coaxial cables 42 that can include a central conductor surrounded by a dielectric material that in turn forms a coaxial transmission line. Can be surrounded by a metal sheath. The upper end 44 of the center conductor 45 extends upward from the upper annular part 46 of the feed post 32. The center conductor 45 connects to the antenna array 16 to provide RF signaling to the antenna array 16. For example, the center conductor 45 may provide an RF path from the coaxial cable 42 to the antenna array 16.

  As shown, the switched ground plane 14 is separated from the ground plane 12 by a distance A. As such, when the switched ground plane 14 is activated, for example by a switch 38 that changes phase, the effective ground plane to the antenna array 16 is moved up by a distance A.

  As described above, the antenna array 16 may include an upper antenna layer 18 and a lower antenna layer 20. The antenna layers 18 and 20 can be separated from each other by a circuit board 48 having a thickness B. As such, antenna layers 18 and 20 are offset from each other by a distance B. The antenna pixels 22 of each antenna layer 18 and 20 can be interconnected by a switch 50, such as a PCM switch. Alternatively, switch 50 may be other types of RF switches such as MEMS, PIN diodes, etc.

  FIG. 5 illustrates a top perspective view of the feed post 32 secured to the ground plane 12 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The upper end 44 of each conductor 45 may be connected to a conductive transition member 52. Transition member 52 provides a transition from conductor 45 to antenna array 16 (not shown in FIG. 5). As shown, the transition member 52 may be formed as a flat triangle. However, the transition member 52 may have a variety of other shapes and sizes, such as rectangular, circular, and the like. Further, the transition member 52 can be or include one or more pixels, such as any of the pixels in the antenna layers 18 and 20 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 4).

  FIG. 6 shows a top plan view of the antenna layer 60 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Each of the antenna layers 18 and 20 shown in FIGS. 1 and 4 may be formed as an antenna layer 60. The antenna layer 60 is formed as a square with inwardly curved corners 62 that can match the matching layer 26. However, the antenna layer 60 can be formed in a variety of other shapes and sizes. For example, the antenna layer 60 may not include inwardly curved corners 62 and may not match the features of the matching layer 26. For example, the antenna layer 60 may be formed as a circle, a triangle, a trapezoid, or the like.

  The antenna layer 60 includes a plurality of pixels 64 interconnected by switches 66, similar to the plate of the switched ground plane 14 described above. Pixels 64 can be similar in size, shape, and distribution. Alternatively, the pixels 64 can be non-uniform in size, shape, and / or distribution. The switch 66 can be formed of PCM such as GeTe. The switch 66 ′ can be at the outer boundary of the antenna layer 60. Switch 66 'may extend beyond the unit cell boundary of antenna layer 60 to provide a connection to adjacent unit cell antenna assemblies. Switch 66, including switch 66 ', is selectively activated (eg, switched to a conductive state) by a control and power signal received by transition member 52 via control line 28 and / or center conductor 45. ) And may be deactivated (eg, switched to a non-conductive state). The switch 66 can be activated or deactivated to form a desired antenna pattern of antenna pixels. For example, all of the switches 66 can be activated to form an antenna pattern of pixels in the shape of the antenna layer 60. Certain switches 66 can be deactivated to form antenna patterns having different shapes.

  FIG. 7 shows a top plan view of the antenna pattern 68 of the antenna layer 60 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, an inner switch around the central opening 70 can be activated to form an active area 69 of the pixel, while an outer switch to form an inactive area 71 of the pixel. Can be deactivated, resulting in a cross-shaped antenna pattern 68. One or both of the antenna layers 18 and 20 shown in FIGS. 1 and 4 can be operated to form a cross-shaped pattern 68.

  FIG. 8 shows a top plan view of the antenna pattern 72 of the antenna layer 60 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The inner switch that forms the active area 73 of the pixel can be activated, while the outer switch that forms the inactive area 75 of the pixel is deactivated to form a square antenna pattern 72. One or both of the antenna layers 18 and 20 shown in FIGS. 1 and 4 may be operated to form a square pattern 72.

  FIG. 9 shows a top plan view of the antenna pattern 74 of the antenna layer 60 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. While the middle switch can be activated, the inner and outer switches are deactivated to create an antenna pattern 74 defined by an inactive square center 77 and an active middle region 76 of pixels. The active intermediate region 76 of the pixel can be formed and connected to the feedpost by the active line of the pixel (not shown in FIG. 9). One or both of the antenna layers 18 and 20 shown in FIGS. 1 and 4 may be operated to form the antenna pattern 74.

  Referring to FIGS. 6-9, the switch 66 can be selectively activated and deactivated to form various antenna patterns. It should be understood that the antenna patterns shown in FIGS. 7-9 are not necessarily optimal antenna configurations or patterns. Rather, FIGS. 7-9 are merely shown as examples of how various antenna patterns may be formed according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Each antenna layer 18 and 20 shown in FIGS. 1 and 4 may have a separate and distinct antenna pattern or the same antenna pattern. Again, the patterns shown in FIGS. 7-9 are merely examples. It should be understood that various antenna patterns can be achieved by activating and deactivating a particular switch 66 in the antenna layer 60. When the switch 66 is electrically activated, the activated switch 66 and the pixels 64 connected to it form various antenna patterns. In contrast, the deactivated switch 66 and the pixel 64 connected to it are generally not part of the operating antenna. In short, the deactivated switch 66 and the pixel 64 connected to it are not electrically present. Each switch 66 can be selectively activated and deactivated to provide a configurable dynamic antenna pattern. An active antenna pattern or shape may be defined by which particular switch 66 is activated at any given time.

  With reference to FIGS. 1 and 6-9, by using two antenna layers 18 and 20, the overlap area of the two antenna layers can form a parallel plate capacitor. At a certain frequency, the ground plane 12 can serve as an inductor. Inductance is the opposite of capacitance. The capacitance of antenna assembly 10 can be increased by overlapping antenna layers 18 and 20, thereby reducing inductance. As noted, the antenna assembly 10 may optionally include more than two antenna layers.

  FIG. 10 shows a top plan view of the control grid 80 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. A control grid, such as control grid 80, may be placed under each antenna layer 18 and 20 shown in FIGS. Alternatively, the control grid 80 may be disposed over each antenna layer 18 and 20 or within each antenna layer 18 and 20. The control grid 80 may be electrically coupled to the control line 28 shown in FIG. 1 and / or the conductor 45 shown in FIG.

  The control grid 80 includes a first set of parallel traces 82 and a second set of parallel traces 84 that are perpendicular to the first set of parallel traces 82. Parallel trace 82 intersects parallel trace 84 at intersection 86. Each intersection 86 may abut or otherwise be close to a switch in the antenna layer. For example, each switch may be associated with a respective intersection 86. The number and spacing of traces 82 and 84 may correspond to the number of switches in a particular antenna layer so that each switch can be associated with a distinct intersection point 86.

  As shown in FIG. 10, when a voltage is applied to trace 84 ', trace 82' is grounded while intersection 86 'is energized. As such, the particular switch associated with the intersection 86 'is switched to the activated or deactivated state. Individual traces 82 and 84 can be selectively energized and grounded in such a manner that selectively activates and deactivates a particular switch. For example, when the intersection 86 'is activated, the PCM switch proximate to the intersection 86' undergoes a state change. Current flows across path 88 from trace 84 'to intersection 86' and through trace 82 'to the ground. In this way, each switch need not be connected to a separate and separate control line, thereby reducing the control line density within the antenna assembly 10. Furthermore, when a particular switch is switched by energizing the intersection, the switch can remain in that particular state without further energy being supplied to the intersection.

  The control grid 80 may provide control signals using frequency selective control lines. Frequency selective control lines can be formed by inserting inductors at subwavelength intervals therein. The inductor can be sized to have a low impedance at the switch control frequency (eg, approximately 20 MHz) and a high impedance at the operating frequency (eg, between 2 GHz and 12 GHz). At low frequencies, a control path such as path 88 provides a continuous conductive trace. At high frequencies, the path provides a blocked set of sub-wavelength floating metal patches that are invisible to high frequency radiation. In this way, the path can be activated at low frequencies and disconnected at high frequencies so as not to interfere with the operation of the antenna assembly.

  As described above, the switch may be a PCM switch. As such, the control grid 80 may operate to power the intersection 86 to address certain switches and switch them on or off. PCM switches do not require a static bias for operation. PCM switches have two stable states that differ in electrical conductivity by several orders of magnitude. Switching can be accomplished by controlled heating and cooling of the PCM switch. The switch associated with intersection 86 'is an addressed element that undergoes a state change. The switch can be continuously changed to different states to form an antenna pattern.

  A control grid, such as control grid 80, may also be located below, above, or in the switched ground plane 14 (shown in FIGS. 1-3). As such, the intersection 86 may be associated with the switch 38 to change the switch 38 between an on state and an off state.

  FIG. 11 shows a top perspective view of an antenna assembly 90 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The antenna assembly 90 can include the components described above. The antenna assembly 90 may include a plurality of modular outer dielectric frames or foamed resin product frames 92 having control line segments 94. Each modular outer frame 92 may be connected to another modular outer frame 92 to form the outer boundary of the unit cell of the antenna assembly 90. The switched ground plane 95 can be supported by a feed post 96 and a modular outer frame 92.

  As shown, the antenna array 96 may not include a central air gap or central aperture. Any of the antenna layers described above may include a central pixel without a central air gap formed therethrough or therebetween.

  FIG. 12 shows a top perspective view of the feed post 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, feedpost 100 is formed using printed circuit board manufacturing techniques. Feed post 100 may include a plurality of vias 102 that may be disposed through a circuit board (not shown). Thus, the antenna assembly may be formed by a plurality of circuit boards that communicate with each other through the vias 102.

  With reference to FIGS. 1-12, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a configurable antenna assembly that can be adapted for high bandwidth communication, for example in a ratio of at least 4: 1. Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a configurable and adaptable antenna assembly that can be selectively switched between multiple antenna patterns and antenna characteristics. Embodiments of the present disclosure can, for example, scan at an angle of 45 ° from the normal to the plane of the antenna and provide dual and separable RF polarization capabilities.

  The antenna assembly may be reconfigured to provide RF performance characteristics at a narrow bandwidth (eg, 100 MHz) with scanning capability at angles such as 45 °, 60 °, and so on. It has been found that the reconfigurable nature of the antenna assembly allows operation with adjacent smaller band tunes that are ultra-wideband (eg, 6: 1 bandwidth ratio) or as narrow as 100 MHz. Has been. The antenna assembly has a plurality of characteristics between a first antenna pattern (s) configured for wideband operation and a second antenna pattern (s) configured for narrowband operation. Can be reconfigured to provide

  As described above, the antenna assembly may include two antenna layers, such as antenna layers 18 and 20, which are connected dipoles with, for example, a capacitive dipole-like feed under the connecting antenna layer. Can be used to form an array. The connecting pixel and feed layer can be made using, for example, a double layer circuit board. The circuit board may be disposed over a ground plane having a dielectric layer of foamed resin product below and above. The differential feed from the lower dipole-like feed can be capacitively coupled to the connecting dipole element layer.

  Each antenna layer may include a plurality of pixels. Pixels allow multiple characteristics by creating antenna patterns of different shapes and sizes that can be used to adjust the antenna assembly to specific frequencies, polarizations, and scan angles. The pixels can be interconnected using an RF compliant switch, which can be formed of a phase change material. Switch command and control may be achieved through the use of addressing line schemes such as those used in high density phase change memory systems.

  It has been found that embodiments of the present disclosure provide an antenna assembly that can enable a wide band instantaneous bandwidth. The antenna assembly can be switched to a narrow ratio band (eg, 100 MHz) to provide better RF performance than is possible with broadband tuning.

  Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an antenna assembly that can be selectively activated and deactivated to provide a wide variety of antenna patterns, such as switch, pixel-to-pixel connections. Different antenna patterns may be used for a variety of reasons such as different missions, operating scenarios, and scanning or viewing capabilities that are generally not possible with static array assemblies.

  Embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with, for example, multi-function and / or shared antenna configurations for communication, electron beam, RADAR, and SIGNIT applications. Embodiments of the present disclosure provide high bandwidth coverage to allow transmission and reception of signals having any polarization, including but not limited to linearly polarized signals, circularly polarized signals, and obliquely polarized signals. And provide polarization density.

  Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide an antenna assembly that may include a PCM switch, frequency selective control lines, and a pixel processed antenna layer. The antenna assembly can be selectively configured between a plurality of antenna patterns.

  Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an antenna assembly that can exhibit multiple antenna characteristics. Each antenna characteristic may be a unique combination of frequency, bandwidth, polarization, power level, scan angle, geometry, beam characteristics (width, scan rate, etc.), etc.

  Although various space and orientation terms such as up, down, down, middle, side, horizontal, vertical, front, etc. may be used to describe embodiments of the present disclosure, such terms are merely shown in the drawings. It is understood that it is only used with respect to the orientations given. The upper part can be reversed, rotated, or otherwise changed such that the upper part is the lower part and vice versa, the horizontal is vertical, and so on.

  Furthermore, the present disclosure includes embodiments according to the following clauses.

  Clause 1: an antenna assembly comprising a first ground plane, a second ground plane that can be switched between a grounded state and a non-grounded state, and a first antenna layer and a second antenna layer , Each of the first antenna layer and the second antenna layer includes a plurality of pixels interconnected by a plurality of first phase change material (PCM) switches, the plurality of first PCM switches comprising a first An antenna assembly configured to be selectively switched between phases to provide a plurality of antenna patterns within the antenna layer and the second antenna layer.

  Clause 2: The antenna assembly of clause 1, wherein the plurality of first PCM switches are configured to be selectively switched to provide a plurality of antenna characteristics.

  Clause 3: The second ground plane includes a plurality of plates interconnected by a plurality of second PCM switches, and the plurality of second PCM switches have the second ground plane in a grounded state and a non-grounded state. 2. The antenna assembly of clause 1, wherein the antenna assembly is selectively activated and deactivated to switch between.

  Clause 4: The antenna assembly of clause 1, further comprising a plurality of control lines connecting the first ground plane to the second ground plane and the first antenna layer and the second antenna layer.

  Clause 5: The antenna assembly of Clause 4, wherein the plurality of first PCM switches connect to the plurality of control lines.

  Clause 6: The antenna assembly of Clause 1, further comprising a feed post mounted on the first ground plane, wherein the second ground plane is secured to a portion of the feed post.

  Clause 7: The antenna assembly of Clause 6, wherein the feedpost comprises one or more conductors that connect to the first antenna layer and the second antenna layer.

  Clause 8: further comprising a first control grid connected to the first antenna layer and a second control grid connected to the second antenna layer, wherein the first control grid and the second control grid Each comprises a first set of traces intersecting a second set of traces at a plurality of intersections operably connected to a respective one of the plurality of first PCM switches, each of the plurality of intersections comprising: The antenna assembly of clause 1, wherein each of the plurality of first PCM switches can be energized to switch between phases.

  Clause 9: The antenna assembly of clause 8, wherein the first control grid and the second control grid are configured to be frequency selective.

  Clause 10: The antenna assembly of clause 8, wherein each of the first control grid and the second control grid further comprises one or more inductors inserted at sub-wavelength intervals.

  Clause 11: Each of the plurality of first PCM switches is formed of germanium telluride (GeTe) having a first phase and a second phase, one of the first phase and the second phase being conductive. The antenna assembly of clause 1, wherein the other of the first phase and the second phase is non-conductive.

  Clause 12: An antenna assembly comprising an antenna array including at least one antenna layer, wherein the at least one antenna layer includes a plurality of pixels interconnected by a plurality of first phase change material (PCM) switches; An antenna assembly, wherein the plurality of first PCM switches are configured to be selectively switched between phases to provide a plurality of antenna patterns in the antenna array to provide a plurality of antenna characteristics.

  Clause 13: The antenna assembly of clause 12, wherein the at least one antenna layer includes at least two antenna layers.

  Clause 14: The antenna assembly of Clause 12, further comprising a switched ground plane that can be switched between a grounded state and an ungrounded state.

  Clause 15: The switched ground plane includes a plurality of plates interconnected by a plurality of second PCM switches, and the plurality of second PCM switches include the second ground plane between a grounded state and an ungrounded state. 15. The antenna assembly of clause 14, wherein the antenna assembly is selectively activated and deactivated to switch between.

  Clause 16: The antenna assembly of clause 12, further comprising a plurality of control lines connected to the antenna array.

  Clause 17: further comprising at least one control grid connected to the at least one antenna layer, wherein the control grid includes a plurality of traces at a plurality of intersections operatively connected to each one of the plurality of first PCM switches. 13. The antenna assembly of clause 12, comprising a first set of traces intersecting the two sets, wherein each of the plurality of intersections may be energized to switch each of the plurality of first PCM switches between phases.

  Clause 18: The antenna assembly of clause 17, further comprising one or more inductors configured such that the control grid is frequency selective and inserted at sub-wavelength intervals.

  Clause 19: Each of the plurality of first PCM switches is formed of germanium telluride (GeTe) having a first phase and a second phase, wherein one of the first phase and the second phase is conductive. 13. The antenna assembly of clause 12, wherein the other of the first phase and the second phase is non-conductive.

  Clause 20: an antenna unit cell array assembly, the first ground plane and a second ground plane that can be switched between a grounded state and a non-grounded state, wherein the second ground plane is a plurality of second ground planes A plurality of plates interconnected by one phase change material (PCM) switch, wherein the plurality of first PCM switches are selective for switching the second ground plane between a grounded state and a non-grounded state An antenna array comprising a second ground plane, a first antenna layer, and a second antenna layer that are activated and deactivated, wherein each of the first antenna layer and the second antenna layer comprises: A plurality of pixels interconnected by a plurality of second PCM switches, wherein the plurality of second PCM switches provide a plurality of antenna characteristics. Configured to selectively switch between a first phase and a second phase to provide a plurality of antenna patterns in the first antenna layer and the second antenna layer to One of the first phase and the second phase is conductive, and the other of the first phase and the second phase is non-conductive. The antenna array, the first antenna layer, and the second antenna layer A first control grid and a second control grid connected to each other, each of the first control grid and the second control grid being operable to a respective one of the plurality of second PCM switches; A first set of traces intersecting a second set of traces at a plurality of connecting intersections, each of the plurality of intersections may be energized to switch each of the plurality of second PCM switches between phases. The first The control grid and the second control grid are configured to be frequency selective, and each of the first control grid and the second control grid further comprises one or more inductors inserted at subwavelength intervals. A first control grid, a second control grid, and a feed post mounted on the first ground plane, wherein the second ground plane is secured to a portion of the feed post, and the first antenna layer and A feed post comprising one or more conductors connected to the second antenna layer, and a plurality of control lines connecting the first ground plane to the second ground plane and the antenna array, the plurality of first lines An antenna unit cell phased array assembly comprising: a plurality of control lines, wherein a plurality of PCM switches connect to the plurality of control lines.

  It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative rather than limiting. For example, the above-described embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of various embodiments of the disclosure without departing from their scope. Although the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define parameters for various embodiments of the present disclosure, the embodiments are by no means limiting and are exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. Accordingly, the scope of various embodiments of the present disclosure should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” refer to the plain English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “where”, respectively. Used as. Furthermore, the terms “first”, “second”, “third”, etc. are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on those objects. Further, the following claims limitations are used unless such terms are explicitly used unless the phrase “means for” is followed by a description of the function that is lacking in future structure. Up to 35 U.S., not written in means plus function format. S. C. It is not intended to be interpreted under §112 (f).

  This written description discloses various embodiments of the disclosure, including the best mode, and various aspects of the disclosure, including the manufacture and use of any device or system and the execution of any incorporated methods. An example is used to allow any person skilled in the art to implement the embodiments. The patentable scope of the various embodiments of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are equivalent structures where the examples have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or where the examples have no substantial difference from the literal language of the claims. Including elements is intended to be within the scope of the claims.

10 antenna assembly 12 ground plane 14 switched ground plane 15 confined volume 16 antenna array 18 upper antenna layer 20 lower antenna layer 22 antenna pixel 26 matching layer 28 control line 30 control unit 32 feed post 33 central pillar 34 base 36 metal Plate 38 Switch 39 End 40 Side 42 Coaxial cable 44 Upper end 45 Center conductor 46 Upper annular component 48 Circuit board 50 Switch 52 Conductive transition member 60 Antenna layer 62 Corner 64 Pixel 66 Switch 66 'Switch 68 Antenna pattern (cross shape)
69 Active area of pixel 70 Central opening 71 Inactive area of pixel 72 Antenna pattern (square shape)
73 pixel active area 74 antenna pattern 75 pixel inactive area 76 pixel active intermediate area 77 inactive square center 80 control grid 82 parallel trace 82 'trace 84 parallel trace 84' trace 86 intersection 86 'intersection 88 path 90 antenna assembly 92 outer frame 94 control line segment 95 switched ground plane 96 feedpost / antenna array 100 feedpost 102 via

Claims (10)

An antenna assembly,
A first ground plane;
A second ground plane that can be switched between a grounded state and a non-grounded state;
A first antenna layer and a second antenna layer, each of the first antenna layer and the second antenna layer being interconnected by a plurality of first phase change material (PCM) switches The plurality of first PCM switches are configured to be selectively switched between phases to provide a plurality of antenna patterns within the first antenna layer and the second antenna layer. A first antenna layer and a second antenna layer,
An antenna assembly comprising:   The antenna assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of first PCM switches are configured to be selectively switched to provide a plurality of antenna characteristics.   The second ground plane includes a plurality of plates interconnected by a plurality of second PCM switches, and the plurality of second PCM switches include the second ground plane in the ground state and the ungrounded state. The antenna assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the antenna assembly is selectively activated and deactivated to switch between states.   4. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of control lines connecting the first ground plane to the second ground plane, the first antenna layer, and the second antenna layer. 5. The described antenna assembly.   The antenna assembly according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of first PCM switches are connected to the plurality of control lines.   The antenna assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a feed post mounted on the first ground plane, wherein the second ground plane is fixed to a part of the feed post. .   The antenna assembly according to claim 6, wherein the feed post comprises one or more conductors that connect to the first antenna layer and the second antenna layer. A first control grid connected to the first antenna layer;
A second control grid connected to the second antenna layer;
And wherein each of the first control grid and the second control grid is a second set of traces at a plurality of intersections operatively connected to a respective one of the plurality of first PCM switches. The first set of traces intersecting each other, wherein each of the plurality of intersections may be energized to switch each of the plurality of first PCM switches between phases. The antenna assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.   9. The antenna assembly of claim 8, wherein the first control grid and the second control grid are configured to be frequency selective.   Each of the plurality of first PCM switches is formed of germanium telluride (GeTe) having a first phase and a second phase, and one of the first phase and the second phase is conductive. 9. The antenna assembly according to any one of claims 1-4, 6, and 8, wherein the other of the first phase and the second phase is non-conductive.

Images